Aziz Orujov, the head of “Kanal 13” internet television in Baku, has been detained amid allegations of smuggling over growing concerns about press freedom in Azerbaijan.
His pretrial detention was recently extended by the Sabail District Court, despite objections from Orujov and his legal team.
Orujov, initially arrested on charges related to unauthorized construction, now faces accusations under Article 206.3.2 of the Criminal Code, which he denies. This case is part of a broader crackdown on media outlets critical of the Azerbaijani government, with about 20 journalists detained over the past eight months.
Media organizations like AbzasMedia and Toplum TV have also faced scrutiny, with allegations of financial misconduct and illegal money transfers. Critics argue these actions are attempts to silence dissent and stifle investigative journalism.
International organizations, including the Committee to Protect Journalists, have voiced concerns over Azerbaijan’s declining press freedom. They urged authorities to uphold freedom of expression and release detained journalists.
